The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

NorthernLight IRL: Rain washes out first day of open test for rookies

8 April 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
INDIANAPOLIS - Heavy rain forced the cancellation of the first day of the Indianapolis 500 Open Test, reserved for the Rookie Orientation Program, on April 7 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The Rookie Orientation Program is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. (EST) April 8. Veterans take to the 2.5-mile oval for the first time at 9 a.m. (EST) April 9 and are scheduled to test through April 11.

The 84th Indianapolis 500 is May 28.

Twelve rookies are scheduled to participate in ROP, a four-phase test. Rookies who pass ROP are eligible to participate in practice and qualifying for the Indianapolis 500.

Im a little disappointed it had to rain today, said rookie Sam Hornish Jr., the regular driver for PDM Racing in the Indy Racing Northern Light Series. I cant wait to get out to see what the track is like. Its the only 2-mile flat track in the world.

This is not a good thing. Being a rookie, I need as much time on the track as I can get.

Another rookie, USAC open-wheel standout Russ Gamester, was philosophical as he waited for his chance to participate in the Rookie Orientation Program with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing.

I know what the weather is (in Indiana), said 1989 USAC Midget national champion Gamester, from Peru, Ind. I want to be out there and do it, but the Lord says it has to rain, so it is.

ROOKIE ORIENTATION PROGRAM QUOTES:

ANDY HILLENBURG (Fast Track Racing Enterprises) (About the rain delay): Im not really worried about this. Ive waited 36 years to be here, so we can wait a day or two. When the tracks green, well be ready. The teams ready and the cars ready; were just waiting to go. Ive got some pretty high expectations. Its the toughest track in the world, and to tell you the truth, I would be disappointed if it wasnt. Ive got a lot of learning to do. Even if it rains until Thursday, Im sure they will still give us the time on the track, so well wait until that comes.

SAM HORNISH JR. (PDM Racing): Its kind of a disappointment because now we ve got to wait another day, at least. Im looking forward to this. I got to drive around the track yesterday with Johnny Rutherford, and that was very informative. Its amazing how much bigger this place is than other places I ve been to. (About whether or not he is nervous to get on the track): Its just a test day now, but when qualifying comes I think the jitters will be there. Thats when it really counts, and it could make or break the whole year. (About how his Indy Racing experience to date will help him here): Theres no comparison between the tracks, so this is a whole new experience. Ive learned how the other drivers are on the track, so that is one thing that will help in May.

CASEY MEARS (Hemelgarn Racing): I was really looking forward to getting in the car, so Im disappointed it wont happen today. The guys are working hard, and well get two days in eventually. Im not too nervous about it because I have a lot to learn, since its my first time at the Speedway and my first time in an Indy car. Im just taking an easy approach to it and being relaxed, because it is a big learning curve. (About getting advice from his father, Roger Mears, and his uncle Rick Mears): Ive gotten tons of advice, mostly about the little things. Lots of pointers on what makes this place unique from others. I will be able to apply it once I get into the seat and see (the track) first-hand, so hopefully we will get out there soon.

OPEN TEST NOTEBOOK

Schedule: The Rookie Orientation Program will take place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. April 8 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Veterans will test on the 2.5-mile oval from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. April 9-11.

Fans welcome: Spectators are welcome to watch the Rookie Orientation Program and Open Test every day from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., free of charge. Seating will be available in the South Terrace bleachers on the inside of the track adjacent to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

Autograph session: A driver autograph session is planned for April 9, during the noon lunch break. Drivers will be shuttled over to the South Terrace stands, where tables will be set up for fans to get autographs from their favorite drivers.

Text provided by Paul Kelly

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.